[jumpSeat]

With only 20 games remaining in the season, we were entering the final phase known as, the stretch drive. This was the time of year when so many teams were in virtual must-win situations in a desperate attempt to make the playoffs. For those paying attention, you could almost see the intensity ratchet up to a whole new level, as clubs in-and-around the playoff bubble put it all on the line for a last gasp post-season push.

So we called the team together and told them what to expect. With opponents coming at us harder than ever, we'd have to be on our game or risk getting left in the snow. Other teams would be playing with desperation, and as we knew only too well, that made them extremely dangerous (kind of like a wounded bear). So it was time to buckle up and tighten the chin strap, 'cause it only gets tougher from here.